Northwestern Legal Services/Legal Aid

1001 State Street, Suite 1200   Erie, PA 16501
New Client Line (814) 452-6957 or (800) 665-6957
Web site: www.nwls.org

NORTHWESTERN LEGAL SERVICES' MISSION STATEMENT:

"Northwestern Legal Services assists low income individuals and families by guiding them through the legal system using advocacy and education to obtain justice with the goal of improving their quality of life and strengthening our community."

Northwestern Legal Services (NWLS) is a private non-profit corporation dedicated to providing free legal representation to low income people with civil legal problems.  They provide service to eligible clients throughout ten counties in northwestern Pennsylvania.  Client eligibility is based on the type of case involved and financial and asset Eligibility Guidelines established by the federal and state government.  Services are provided in a wide range of matters including public benefits, family law, housing, health care, education, and employment.

NWLS has expanded client services by offering service delivery in a variety of ways.  In addition to direct representation, they operate private attorney involvement programs, a telephone advice program, conduct Self-Help & Pro Se Clinics, and provide community education.

The Erie Office of NWLS houses their Central Intake Unit.  To apply for services, clients in the ten county service area should call the Central Intake Unit.  Client's eligibility will be screened over the phone and if found eligible, an application for services is completed and an appointment is scheduled.  In some areas of law, telephone advice is also provided directly over the telephone.

For more information about the services offered by NWLS, visit their site at www.nwls.org.